The conflict with Iran has exposed fresh strains in the trans-Atlantic alliance, as US President Donald Trump publicly criticized British Prime Minister Keir Starmer for declining to join American and Israeli offensive strikes.

Speaking at the White House, Trump rebuked Britain’s initial refusal to allow US warplanes to operate from its bases, saying, “This is not Winston Churchill that we’re dealing with.” In an interview with The Sun, he suggested London was no longer Washington’s closest European partner, praising France and others while describing the UK as “much different.”

Starmer had initially blocked US aircraft from using British bases when strikes began Saturday. He later permitted limited use of facilities in England and Diego Garcia for operations targeting Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities, but stopped short of endorsing broader offensive action. Even after an Iran-made drone struck Britain’s Akrotiri base in Cyprus, Starmer maintained that the UK “will not join offensive action,” instead deploying defensive assets including HMS Dragon and counter-drone systems.

Addressing Parliament, Starmer stressed that Britain does not support “regime change from the skies,” adding that any UK involvement must have a lawful basis and align with national interests. His remarks were widely viewed as a measured but clear divergence from Washington’s approach.

The disagreement comes amid months of friction, including disputes over Greenland, the future of the Chagos Islands, and differing interpretations of international law. Analysts say the episode underscores tensions fueled by Trump’s “America First” foreign policy and transactional diplomacy.

European reactions remain mixed. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte backed the US action, while Spain condemned it as dangerous. Britain, France, and Germany said they were not involved in the strikes but would support proportionate defensive measures.

Despite the rhetoric, British officials insist the US-UK “special relationship” remains intact, emphasizing continued cooperation on economic and security matters even as strategic differences surface over Iran.